School Name: West Hills Montessori
Start Date: 08/22/2022
West Hills Montessori School, established in 1968, seeks a Classroom Assistant to join one of our Lower Elementary classrooms.
Located in the tranquil West Hills of SW Portland, Oregon, the “red school” hosts 7 classrooms: 1 Upper Elementary, 2 Lower Elementary, and 4 Primary. West Hills Montessori School is family-owned and operated, and has 2 campuses that serve children all the way from 15 months through 12 years of age.
For over 50 years we have been devoted to the development of each individual child’s education through quality Montessori practices. We have been a pillar of strength and community for 150+ children and their families throughout the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic, and we look forward to continuing this next year with a new member on our team.
The available position is to assist in an established Lower Elementary classroom, located at 4920 SW Vermont Street in Portland. This large and sun-filled room serves children between 6 to 9 years old, as well as their parent community, and is led by an AMI-trained Elementary Guide. The children in this classroom primarily have moved up from our own classroom communities or other Montessori programs, and many will continue their Montessori journey by joining our Upper Elementary classroom.
The position of Classroom Assistant is highly regarded in our community as a unique and essential role, and focuses on supporting both the Lead Guide and the children through high-quality supervision, observations, collaboration, and leadership with the upkeep of the classroom space. We look forward to meeting someone who is excited about this special opportunity.
Required Skills, Qualifications, and Experience:
Sincere enjoyment of the early-elementary aged child
Experience working with children between the ages of 5-10 in a group setting (15+ individuals)
Comfort with the English language, including writing, spelling, and reading aloud to children
Ability to move over uneven terrain, to work outside during inclement weather, and to lift up to 25 pounds
Willingness to follow COVID-19 safety protocols, including wearing a face mask both indoors and outdoors
Willingness to obtain and maintain the following:
Criminal Background Registry
First Aid and CPR
Food Handler’s Card
Desired qualities include:
Montessori Elementary Diploma; completed or in-progress
Experience in a Montessori Elementary classroom
Skills in music or art, especially in leading activities with children
Experience with caring for houseplants and fish tanks
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
Familiarity with the Google Suite: Drive, Docs, Gmail, etc.
We offer:
Supportive, Montessori-trained administrators, each with years of classroom experience
Warm, friendly, and positive staff members who truly enjoy working together
Lovely indoor and outdoor spaces
Fully equipped classrooms
Frequent offerings for professional development
Encouragement for professional growth and development
Competitive compensation and benefits (including health, dental, and Simple IRA Employer Match)
This hourly, full-time position begins August 2022, with the possibility of summer employment, if desired. Interested applicants are encouraged to submit the following documents to Anne Blickenstaff, Head of School via email:
A cover letter describing why you are interested in this position, and where you are in your professional journey.
Your resume, detailing your education, training, and applicable experiences.
Two references with names, contact information, and a brief description of how you are connected to them.